November 8, 1984

Chinese scientists say they have taken the first step toward producing energy by controlled nuclear fusion. The first test, conducted Sept. 26 at an installation in Sichuan Province, produced a burst of hot ionized gas plasma. It existed for only a few milliseconds, but was regarded as an important start.

Controlled nuclear fusion is at the forefront of world nuclear research efforts. Fusion, the uniting of nuclei, differs from conventional nuclear power, which is produced by splitting atoms.

Meanwhile, China denied as ''entirely groundless'' a charge that it had spread nuclear technology. A Foreign Ministry spokesman said Wednesday a recent investigation report by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace stated that China played a major role in allowing nonnuclear countries to possess nuclear technology. China has repeatedly stated it is against nuclear proliferation.